Last week, 3/15, Cramer made a couple of calls on shipping1. He thinks dry bulk shipping index (DBI) has put in its lows and is now on the road to recovery2. There were only three companies that met his investment criteria (my guess market cap),and he recommended one of the three- Diana Shipping (DSX)3. Recommended his favorite tanker idea, Nordic American Tankers (NAT)

In the past, I have mostly used Cramer as a contrary indicator. On his calls from last week,I find myself mostly agreeing with Cramer. Before someone asks if I got hit by an oar, letme clarify the points I agree with Cramer. The BDI trading higher than it was a few monthsago when it hit multi-year lows just means the same thing- the BDI is trading higher thanit was a few months ago. The trend might be up, but seasonal fluctuations do not rule out arevisit to those lows. I also disagree on his reasoning of DSX's chartering strategy.Cramer seems to think DSX management is taking shorter charter terms because a rebound inrates is imminent. I don't think so. DSX has always had a conservative approach to charteringof vessels. My guess is, the company is taking the short charter terms because the pickingsare slim, and a conservative management team takes a reasonable deal. Not too much disagreementon the rest of his DSX premise.

Regarding NAT, it is his favorite shipping company. I suspect Cramer has had a small part inNAT's increased volume this week. For tanker companies, especially those companies withspot trading vessels, a good test is always Q3.

Announcements

When Life Gives You Lemons
We all have had hardships and made poor decisions. The important thing is how we respond and grow. Read the story of a Fool who started from nothing, and looks to gain everything.

Work for Fools?
Winner of the Washingtonian great places to work, and Glassdoor #1 Company to Work For 2015! Have access to all of TMF's online and email products for FREE, and be paid for your contributions to TMF! Click the link and start your Fool career.